Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms that can occur for a variety of reasons. While often short-lived and harmless, they can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition that requires medical attention. At Birmingham Gastroenterology Clinic, we are here to help you understand, diagnose, and treat the cause of your symptoms.

What causes nausea and vomiting?

Nausea and vomiting can result from a range of digestive, neurological, or systemic issues. Common causes include:

• Gastroenteritis: An infection or irritation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by a virus or bacteria
• Acid reflux or GORD: Stomach acid flowing into the oesophagus, causing irritation and nausea
• Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining due to infection (e.g., H. pylori) or medications like NSAIDs
• Peptic ulcers: Sores in the stomach lining that may cause nausea, especially after eating
• Gallstones: Blockages in the bile ducts leading to nausea and vomiting
• Motion sickness: A response to movement, such as during car, boat, or plane travel
• Pregnancy: Commonly in the first trimester, known as morning sickness
• Migraine: Severe headaches often accompanied by nausea and vomiting
• Food poisoning: Eating contaminated food
• Medications: Some drugs, such as antibiotics, painkillers, or chemotherapy, may cause nausea as a side effect

In rare cases, nausea and vomiting may be linked to more serious conditions, such as bowel obstruction, kidney or liver disease, or neurological issues like brain injury.

What are the symptoms of nausea and vomiting?

Nausea is an uneasy or uncomfortable feeling in your stomach, often accompanied by an urge to vomit. Vomiting is the act of forcefully expelling stomach contents through your mouth. Additional symptoms may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Stomach cramps or bloating
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Sweating
• Dehydration, especially if vomiting is prolonged

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical advice to identify the cause and begin appropriate treatment.

When to seek urgent help

While nausea and vomiting are often harmless, you should seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Blood in your vomit (bright red or coffee-ground appearance)
• Dark or black stools (a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent vomiting lasting more than 24 hours
• Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, reduced urination, or dizziness

How are nausea and vomiting investigated?

At Birmingham Gastroenterology Clinic, we use advanced diagnostic tools to identify the underlying cause of nausea and vomiting. Depending on your symptoms, your consultant may recommend:

• Upper GI endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed into your oesophagus and stomach to check for inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, or X-rays to detect gallstones, bowel obstruction, or other structural issues
• Blood tests: To assess for infections, liver function, or other potential conditions
• Stool tests: To check for infections or parasites
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) testing: To detect the bacteria linked to ulcers and gastritis

How are nausea and vomiting treated?

Treatment will depend on the cause of your symptoms and may include:

• Lifestyle changes: Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding foods that trigger nausea
• Medications: Antacids, anti-nausea drugs, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid
• Rehydration: Oral or intravenous fluids if vomiting leads to dehydration
• Antibiotics: For bacterial infections such as H. pylori
• Surgery: Rarely needed but may be recommended for conditions like gallstones or bowel obstruction

Your consultant will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Why choose Birmingham Gastroenterology Clinic?

At Birmingham Gastroenterology Clinic, we specialise in diagnosing and treating digestive issues like nausea and vomiting. With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experienced specialists, we provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments in a patient-focused environment. Whether your symptoms are mild or more severe, we are dedicated to helping you regain control of your health.

Contact us

If you are struggling with persistent nausea and vomiting, contact Birmingham Gastroenterology Clinic today to book your consultation. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in improving your quality of life.